Apprentice possible??

[Clarence Zeches]

Lance:  I agree 100% with what Steve said in his reply.  Over the years I
have trained several individuals and they have always paid me for training
them.  I have on occasions paid them as a sub-contractor when they have
helped on a job such as moving a piano.                                    
                                          C. Zeches RPT.

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> From: Lance Lafargue <lafargue@iAmerica.net>
> To: Pianotech Listserve <pianotech@ptg.org>
> Subject: Apprentice possible??
> Date: Friday, October 10, 1997 12:57 PM
> 
> I was recently approached by a prospective apprentice.  This is not your
> usual idiot with his own old upright who'd like to learn how to fix it
> himself, or the housewife who's always enjoyed music and would like to
> "pick up piano tuning".  This young man is serious and has set serious
> goals and is willing to do whatever it takes, good with tools/his hands,
> plays piano, etc.  I would set goals for RPT status within 18-24 months
> with solid training in rebuilding, repairs (and business knowledge from
my
> college degree for what that's worth). 
> 
> Question:  Is there ANY way to help him without going through all of the
> IRS requirements for workers comp., withholding income taxes, insurances,
> payroll
> taxes, etc., etc.  NOTE: I am aware of the IRS restrictions and what
> guidelines they look at to classify a person employee vs. independent
> contractor ...... 
> 
> What I am asking is; is there a way to let him learn from me and buy him
> tools in payment, or teach him here and let him establish himself as an
> independent tech in the eyes of the IRS, too????  I want to stay above
the
> table on this, but I'm not willing to take on headaches and jump through
> dozens of hoops for our beloved big brothers in the IRS so some young kid
> can learn a trade and leave.  I know that this dilemma is not a new one
to
> many of you.  My business is small and simple and I'd like to keep it as
> close to that as possible.  Thanks in advance!!!!!!!
> Lance Lafargue, RPT
> New Orleans Chapter
> Covington, LA.
> lafargue@iamerica.net